66
The Story of Jesus
The priests began to fear that they would fail of obtaining any
evidence which they could bring against their prisoner before Pilate.
They felt that one last effort must be made. The high priest raised his
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right hand toward Heaven, and addressed Jesus in the form of a solemn
oath:
“I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou
be the Christ, the son of God.”
Matthew 26:63
.
The Saviour never denied His mission or His relation to the Father.
He could remain silent to personal insult, but He ever spoke plainly and
decidedly when His work or Sonship to God was called in question.
Every ear was bent to listen, and every eye was fixed upon Him as
He answered: “Thou hast said.”
In the custom of those days this was the same as answering, “Yes,”
or, “It is as thou hast said.” This was the strongest form of an affirmative
answer. A heavenly light seemed to illuminate the pale countenance
of the Saviour as He added:
“Nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of
man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of
Heaven.”
Matthew 26:64
.
In this statement the Saviour presented the reverse of the scene
then taking place. He pointed forward to the time when He will occupy
the position of supreme Judge of Heaven and earth. He will then be
seated upon the Father’s throne, and from His decisions there will be
no appeal.
He brought before His hearers a view of that day, when, instead
of being surrounded and abused by a riotous mob, He will come in
the clouds of Heaven with power and great glory. Then He will be
escorted by legions of angels. Then He will pronounce sentence upon
His enemies, among whom will be that same accusing throng.
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As Jesus spoke the words declaring Himself to be the Son of God,
and Judge of the world, the high priest rent his robe, as if to show his
horror. He lifted his hands toward Heaven, and said:
“He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of wit-
nesses? Behold, now ye have heard His blasphemy. What think ye?”
The judges answered, “He is guilty of death.”
Matthew 26:65, 66
.
It was contrary to the Jewish law to try a prisoner by night. Though
the condemnation of Christ had been determined, there must be a
formal trial by day.